Nursing Law And Ethics Quiz Questions And Answers

The explanation for the given correct answer is that laws are formal rules established by the government that individuals are required to follow, while ethics refers to moral principles and values that guide individuals' behavior and decision-making. In the context of nursing, laws dictate the legal obligations and responsibilities of nurses, while ethics guides them in making morally sound choices and providing compassionate care to patients. Therefore, the statement that laws refer to statutes or written rules of conduct, vs. ethics refers to "right and wrong" or what nurses "ought" to do, is true.

Leaving an unstable patient unattended in the bathroom can be considered an example of negligence because it shows a failure to provide proper care and supervision. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise reasonable care or caution, resulting in harm or injury to another person. In this case, leaving a patient who is unstable and potentially at risk of falling or experiencing other complications unattended in the bathroom can lead to serious consequences and is a clear example of negligence.

Libel and slander are both forms of defamation, which involve making false statements that harm someone's reputation. The key difference between the two lies in the medium through which the false statement is communicated. Libel refers to written or printed defamation, such as in newspapers, magazines, or online platforms. On the other hand, slander refers to spoken defamation, typically occurring in conversations, speeches, or broadcasts. Therefore, the statement that libel is a form of written defamation, while slander is verbal, is true.

Assault and battery are two distinct legal terms. Assault refers to the act of threatening to cause bodily harm, whereas battery refers to the actual physical contact that results in harm. Therefore, the statement that assault is threatening to cause bodily harm and battery is the actual action that causes physical harm is correct.

The given scenario describes a nurse being sued for failing to meet the standard of care expected during her patient assignment. This indicates negligence based on a breach of duty. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise the level of care and skill that a reasonably prudent person in a similar situation would have provided. In this case, the nurse's failure to perform the standard of care breaches her duty towards the patient, resulting in negligence.

The Nurse Practice Act is a set of laws and regulations that govern the practice of nursing within a state. Its primary purpose is to establish the criteria for licensure, define the scope of nursing practice, and ensure that nurses meet certain standards to protect public health and safety. It does not specifically address diet, surgical procedures, or medical equipment use.

Nursing ethics is defined by moral principles and values because it involves making ethical decisions and judgments based on what is morally right and wrong in the context of nursing practice. Nurses are expected to uphold ethical principles such as autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice in their interactions with patients, colleagues, and the healthcare system. These moral principles and values guide nurses in providing compassionate and ethical care, respecting patient autonomy, maintaining confidentiality, and promoting trust and integrity in their profession. Written rules, policy and procedures, and standards of care may help to clarify and support ethical decision-making, but ultimately, it is the moral principles and values that form the foundation of nursing ethics.

The Good Samaritan Act provides protection from civil liability when emergency care is provided in good faith. This means that if someone voluntarily helps in an emergency situation, such as providing first aid or CPR, they cannot be held legally responsible for any harm or injury that may occur, as long as they acted in good faith and within their capabilities. This encourages individuals to assist in emergencies without fear of being sued, promoting the overall well-being and safety of the community. The act does not cover residents of long-term care facilities, passerby in car accidents, or nurses who choose not to provide care in an emergency.

Taking a patient's pain medication is not considered an intentional tort because it does not involve any intentional harm or wrongdoing towards the patient. Intentional torts are actions that are done deliberately to cause harm or injury to another person, such as assault, false imprisonment, or defamation. However, taking a patient's pain medication may be a violation of professional ethics or medical protocols, but it is not classified as an intentional tort.

Medication errors are the most common source of malpractice for nurses. This is because nurses are responsible for administering medications to patients, and any mistake in dosage, timing, or administration can have serious consequences. Medication errors can lead to patient harm, complications, or even death. Nurses are expected to follow proper protocols, accurately calculate dosages, and ensure the correct medication is given to the right patient. Failure to do so can result in legal action and malpractice claims.

The correct answer is "is the final authority (law) on what a nurse is legally obligated to do." The state's Nurse Practice Act (NPA) serves as the governing law that outlines the legal obligations and responsibilities of nurses. It sets the standards of practice, defines the scope of nursing, and establishes the rules and regulations that nurses must adhere to. The NPA ensures that nurses provide safe and competent care to patients and holds them accountable for their actions. It is the ultimate legal authority that guides nurses in their professional practice.

This means that standards of care are based on what is commonly accepted as appropriate and effective treatment by medical professionals with similar training and experience, ensuring consistency and quality in patient care.

The nurse stating that she loves working in long-term care because she likes the elderly population reflects her personal values. Values are deeply held beliefs and preferences that guide a person's attitudes and behaviors. In this case, the nurse's value of caring for and being interested in the well-being of the elderly population is evident.

The Nurse Practice Acts are laws that regulate the practice of nursing. They are enacted by state legislatures and outline the scope of practice for nurses, setting the standards and requirements for licensure and practice. As statutory laws, they carry legal authority and are enforceable by the state. They are different from policies and procedures, which are internal guidelines set by healthcare organizations, and from living wills, which are legal documents that outline a person's healthcare preferences in the event they become unable to communicate. Good nursing ethics, while important, are not the same as statutory laws.